ACCOMODATION

OUTDOORS

Osaka might a buzzing urban metropolis, but there is no shortage of beautifully maintained parks where you can experience some outdoor fun in the heart of the city.

Parks close to the urban centre include the famous Osaka Castle Park, the spectacular waterfront Nakanoshima Park, and Kema Sakuranomiya Park known for its magnificent cherry trees. Venturing north, you can hike up to a waterfall at Mino Park or tour the wonderful Open-Air Museum of Old Japanese Farm Houses at Hattori Ryokuchi. Osaka's two Expo Parks where the Japan World Exposition was held in 1970 and '90 are both lively spots with diverse attractions. Finally, in the city's south, animal lovers can visit Osaka's zoo beside the well-known Tennoji Park and sports lovers can see the stadium that hosts the Osaka International Ladies Marathon at Nagai Park.

Within the large park rich in greenery stands the Open-Air Museum of Old Japanese Farm Houses, an open-air concert hall, a horseback riding center, tennis courts, etc. One of the Top 100 Cities and Parks of Japan.

A waterfront park nestled between Dojimagawa and Tosaborigawa rivers. With its rose garden featuring about 4,000 rose bushes and about different 100 rose species, this park has been selected one of the 100 most scenic greenery spots in Osaka in recognition of its beautiful scenery against a background of classical neighboring buildings.

The park includes Osaka Castle Tower (Osaka Castle Museum), the Nishinomaru Garden, an ume (plum) orchard, the Osaka-jo Hall, and a Japanese archery ground. Seasonal flowers, such as ume, cherry blossoms, and azaleas, can be observed.